Dandy braces for fat fight

By Nicole Williams
UNHEALTHY residents in Greater Dandenong will be urged to fight the flab and cut out unhealthy living.
The municipality is one of only 14 across the state to receive a cut of $100 million in funding from the Victorian and Commonwealth governments to cut obesity, smoking and unhealthy eating.
More than 50 per cent of adults in the community do not get enough daily exercise, with just 52.2 per cent of males and 46.2 per cent of females reaching daily physical activity guidelines – lower than the state average.
The nutrition in the city was also much lower than the state average with only 1.3 per cent of females eating enough fruit and vegetables each day, according to the Victorian Population Health Study 2008.
Health Minister David Davis announced the funding in late December and said all Victorians should adopt a healthier lifestyle.
“There will be a range of programs to ensure healthy choices are easy for individuals, families and communities, and each of the communities will have a vital role in determining what best suits their local needs,” Mr Davis said.
The funding will enable Greater Dandenong council to partner with schools, workplaces and the community.
Greater Dandenong Council has announced partnerships with the Dandenong Market, local school and community events to promote healthy living and eating.
There are a number of upcoming events including free healthy living programs.
Council is also developing a website to provide residents with up-to-date information on free local activities and offer healthy eating advice.